Two new primary schools get given the green light

Controversial plans to build new primary schools for 800 children at two Eastbourne secondary schools were given the go ahead yesterday (Monday).

Both Cavendish and Ratton could see new schools built on their sites with the first opening as early as September next year.

A previous decision made in December to expand Tollgate Junior School in Winston Crescent and St Andrew’s CE Infant School in Winchelsea Road to meet the need for more primary school places was reversed.

Councillor Nick Bennett, the East Sussex County Council lead member for learning and school effectiveness, agreed for officers to progress the plans at his lead member meeting.

The proposals will see a new two-form entry primary school built on the Cavendish School site, in Eldon Road, which is likely be to be a free school run by the academy trust behind the secondary school.

Meanwhile, Cllr Bennett also recommended to support the further investigation of a second two-form entry primary school on the Ratton School site, in Park Avenue, subject to the outcome of a study assessing the feasibility of such a scheme.

Councillor Bennett said, “We are facing a significant shortfall in primary school places in Eastbourne in the years to come and we need to plan now to ensure everyone gets a place in a good school.

“These proposals will play a large part in ensuring we have enough places for our children, in an area of Eastbourne where there is a need, on sites capable of accommodating them.

“Both schools are supportive of the proposals and while with any scheme of this nature there will be local issues to overcome, these must be addressed in the consultation and planning process which will follow in due course.”